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Description
Discover the legendary AKG C 451 EB Pair, a modular condenser microphone system that stands as a staple in the world of studio recording. Revered for its versatility and precision, this microphone set features phantom-powered solid-state electronics, ensuring a pristine audio capture that is both clear and true to the source. The standard inclusion of the CK1 cardioid capsule delivers a focused sound, making it ideal for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments and overheads.
What sets the AKG C 451 EB apart is its modular design, allowing you to effortlessly swap out capsules and barrel pads to tailor the microphone's response to your specific needs. This flexibility, combined with a switchable high-pass filter, empowers you to choose between a flat response or roll off at 75Hz and 150Hz, perfect for managing proximity effect and low-frequency rumble.
Designed with a remarkably low noise floor and capable of withstanding high sound pressure levels, this microphone pair is a workhorse that handles everything from delicate vocals to booming percussion with equal aplomb. Whether you're a seasoned producer or an aspiring musician, the AKG C 451 EB Pair provides a professional-grade solution to elevate your recordings.
Key Features:
- Modular condenser microphone system with interchangeable capsules
- CK1 cardioid capsule for focused audio capture
- Phantom-powered solid-state electronics for clear sound reproduction
- Switchable high-pass filter with flat, 75Hz, and 150Hz options
- Low noise floor and high SPL handling for versatile studio applications
Product specs
| Brand | AKG |
| Model | C 451 EB Pair |
| Year | 1970s |
| Made In | Austria |
| Categories | Microphones |
| Electronics | Analog, Solid State |
| Microphone Type | Small-Diaphragm Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired |
FAQs
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What applications is the AKG C 451 EB Pair best suited for?
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The AKG C 451 EB Pair is ideal for studio and live sound applications, particularly for miking acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and choirs, thanks to its small-diaphragm condenser design and cardioid polar pattern.
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Does the AKG C 451 EB Pair have a built-in high-pass filter?
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Yes, the AKG C 451 EB Pair includes a switchable high-pass filter, offering a 14dB/octave cut at either 75Hz or 150Hz, which helps reduce low-frequency noise and rumble.
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What type of connector does the AKG C 451 EB Pair use?
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The AKG C 451 EB Pair features a standard XLR connector, ensuring compatibility with most professional audio equipment and interfaces.
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Is the AKG C 451 EB Pair suitable for recording vocals?
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While primarily designed for instruments, the AKG C 451 EB Pair can be used for vocals, especially when a bright and detailed sound is desired, though it may not capture the warmth often preferred for vocal recordings.
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What is the polar pattern of the AKG C 451 EB Pair?
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The AKG C 451 EB Pair utilizes a cardioid polar pattern, which is effective in isolating the sound source while minimizing background noise from the sides and rear.
Videos
Parkway Studios
AKG C451 Microphone Review - ParkwayStudios.com.au
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG C 451 EB Pair.
Comparisons
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The AKG C 451 EB is noted for its bright, detailed sound, contrasting with the darker, warmer Neumann KM84, recommended for hi-hats and acoustic guitars.
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While similar in clarity to a C414, the AKG C 451 EB is considered much clearer than the SM57, particularly in capturing intricate details.
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Neumann 184s were considered before choosing C451Bs, highlighting user perception of these as a compromise choice.
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The Austrian Audio CC8, crafted by former AKG engineers, offers a slightly darker tone than the AKG C 451 EB, yet takes EQ adjustments well for added brightness.
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Users find the DPA 4011 to be less bright but similarly detailed and versatile compared to the C451, making it a strong alternative for various recording settings.
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The Audio Technica AT4051b is noted for its smoothness and versatility, handling high SPLs well and performing effectively on a wide range of instruments.
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Use cases and applications
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Ideal for recording dark jazz cymbals due to its brightness, creating a shimmery high end for background strumming acoustic guitar parts.
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The microphone excels in miking dark-sounding upright pianos by capturing the hammer side with the lid removed.
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The Josephson C42 is favored for drum overheads, offering brightness without the "pingy" characteristic often associated with the C451.
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The Lauten Audio LA-120 is appreciated for its wider cardioid pattern, providing a pleasant capture for overheads compared to the AKG C 451 EB.
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The Soyuz SU-011 FET is highlighted for being bright and clear yet not as "hard" sounding, offering a potential alternative for those seeking a less aggressive tone.
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User experience
Setup and maintenance
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Proper mic placement is crucial; monitoring with headphones while adjusting position can mitigate honkiness.
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Genre Usage
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